Ojukwu condemned the inability of the National Assembly to pass landmark legislation on women during constitutional reforms, stressing that passing the bills into law will reduce gender-based violations and legally equip women to challenge the inequalities confronting them, including Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
According to Ojukwu, gender equality is the key to overall development in every facet of society, and gender discrimination usually comes with a lot of denials to the detriment of society as women with incredible talents and potential are neglected merely based on gender.
He stated that women’s prudence in resource management and developmental skills cannot be overemphasised and remain the pillars of our future.
The NHRC boss stated that the theme of this year’s commemoration, “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality “Gender equality,” is very apt considering the proven capacity of women in diverse fields of life such as medicine, pharmacy, digital technology, engineering, and literature, among others.
Therefore, entrenching affirmative action policy will allow those women who were hitherto relegated to the background in the so-called men’s world to spring surprises that will take society to greater heights.
He emphasised that Nigerian women and other women elsewhere have, on different occasions, proven that they can perform excellently in drawing policies and making decisions that could turn around the society. He added that they should be encouraged to unleash their best potential for the development of the entire organisation.
Ojukwu said the passing of the Gender and Equal Opportunity Bill, CEDAW Domestication Bill, and other related bills will go a long way in ensuring that women are not discriminated against in any way, as well as ensuring that their rights are adequately protected.
He noted that gender-based violence has continued to plague Nigerian society, with the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating the problem. He called on all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and development partners, to collectively end violence against women and girls in Nigeria.
The NHRC boss also commended the efforts of Nigerian women who have distinguished themselves in various fields of endeavour, noting that their contributions to national development are immeasurable. He said women must be recognised and appreciated for their contributions to society, stressing that it is only by doing so that humanity can truly progress.